Side by side
Esqase vs Referent
Both stand on legal crm software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free trial AndroidAPIiPhone+1
Choose Esqase if your firm wants case workflows, billing, IOLTA accounting, and client actions in a shared system. Consider another option if you need a free plan or the listed starting price does not fit your budget.
Visit Esqase Free plan AndroidiPhoneWeb
Referent pairs workflow automation with explicit lawyer approval for critical actions. Its limited access status and upcoming integrations should be considered by firms evaluating it.
Visit ReferentThe facts
| Esqase | Referent | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | A free trial | Yes |
| Open source | No | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, API, iPhone, Web | Android, iPhone, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Annual: $49 per user a month | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 5 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | esqase.com | referent.law |
| On legal crm software | #6 of 34 | #2 of 34 |
Esqase: what it does well
- Combines intake, matter management, billing, documents, and eSignature.
- Separates trust and operating accounts with ledgers and reconciliation reporting.
- Reusable playbooks can run steps sequentially for leads or matters.
- Clients can book, pay, submit forms, and sign via browser links.
- Connects email and calendars, with meeting links for Meet, Teams, or Zoom.
What to know first
- No free plan is available.
- Annual pricing starts at $49/user/mo.
- Professional requires two-factor authentication for every member.
Referent: what it does well
- Agents assist with intake, matters, email, deadlines, and follow-ups.
- High-risk actions require lawyer approval and are recorded.
- Mobile apps support review, approvals, and matter checks.
- Includes an MCP server for compatible AI apps.
- Maker says client and matter data are not used for AI training.
What to know first
- Access is private beta or invitation-only.
- Outlook and Microsoft 365 are marked as coming soon.
- It is not an accounting system.
- SOC 2 and ISO 27001 are in preparation, not certified.
Alternatives to Esqase Alternatives to Referent The whole list